Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe

I absolutely love this Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe because it’s not only packed with vibrant flavors, but it’s also surprisingly easy to throw together on a weeknight. There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl filled with tender chicken, savory broth, and just the right touch of spice from that jalapeño. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl—perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little pick-me-up.

When I first tried this recipe, I was blown away by how the cumin and coriander really made the soup feel authentic without being overwhelming. You’ll find that it strikes a perfect balance between hearty and fresh, especially when topped with creamy avocado and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese. Trust me, once you make this Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe, it’ll quickly become a regular request from friends and family.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a fragrant, comforting soup. When you shop, look for fresh veggies and high-quality chicken broth to boost your flavor.

• Olive oil: Use a good extra-virgin olive oil for richer taste.
• Onion: Yellow or white onions work best for a balanced sweetness.
• Carrots: Fresh and firm carrots add natural sweetness and texture.
• Celery: Adds crunch and a depth of flavor you don’t want to skip.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives that essential aromatic punch.
• Chicken broth: Use low-sodium if you want more control over salt levels.
• Crushed tomatoes: Choose undrained canned tomatoes for convenient acidity and body.
• Jalapeño pepper: Adjust quantity or omit if you prefer less heat.
• Ground cumin: Toasted cumin adds earthiness and warmth.
• Ground coriander: Brings a mild citrusy note to balance spices.
• Cooked chicken: Leftover chicken or poached breasts both work great here.
• Fresh cilantro: Totally optional, but I love how it brightens the whole soup.
• Salt & black pepper: To taste, enhancing every ingredient’s flavor naturally.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: For melting gooey goodness on top.
• Sour cream: Adds cool creaminess that softens the spice.
• Avocado: Creamy chunks give a luxurious bite in every spoonful.
• Tortilla chips: For crunch and a little fun textural contrast.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Feel free to play around with the heat level or add extra veggies to suit your mood.

• Spicy Kick: I once added extra jalapeño and a dash of chipotle powder for a smoky twist my husband adored.
• Vegetable Boost: Toss in corn kernels or diced zucchini to add more texture and nutrients.
• Dairy-Free Option: Skip the cheese and sour cream, and use avocado or a squeeze of lime for creaminess instead.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Ensure your broth and chips are gluten-free for a safe meal that everyone can enjoy.

How to Make Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat until it shimmers—this usually takes about a minute. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant—about 5 minutes. This step builds your soup’s flavor base, so don’t rush it.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds—you want it fragrant, but not burned. Then pour in the chicken broth and canned crushed tomatoes (with their juice). Stir in your minced jalapeño, ground cumin, and coriander. This combination gives the soup its signature taste.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. This simmer lets the flavors meld together beautifully. While it simmers, you can shred or dice your cooked chicken if you haven’t already.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Finish

Stir the chicken and optional fresh cilantro into the soup. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper—start with about a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of pepper, then adjust to your taste. Heat through for a few more minutes until the chicken is warmed.

Step 5: Serve with Tasty Toppings

Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, diced avocado, and some crunchy tortilla chips. These add creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements that make each spoonful memorable.

How to Serve Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of simple garnishes that add creamy and crunchy contrasts: shredded sharp cheddar cheese melts just right, sour cream cools down the heat, and diced avocado feels like a rich, smooth addition. And tortilla chips? They add the perfect satisfying crunch that my family always asks for.

Side Dishes

I like pairing this soup with warm corn tortillas or a big green salad. Sometimes I serve it with a side of Mexican street corn (elote) or even some homemade guacamole and chips to keep the fiesta going.

Creative Ways to Present

For celebrations, I’ve served this soup in mini tortilla bowls topped with all the garnishes—it’s always a hit and looks impressive. Another fun idea is layering the soup and toppings buffet-style to let guests customize their own bowls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and make sure to keep the tortilla chips and avocado toppings separate. The soup itself keeps well for about 4 days, which makes for great lunch the next day.

Freezing

Freezing the soup works well, although I recommend skipping avocado and cheese before freezing since they don’t hold texture well. Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months, then thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water helps when reheating so your soup doesn’t thicken too much. Add toppings fresh when serving to keep them vibrant.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe as much as I do—it’s one of those dishes that brings comfort and bright flavors together effortlessly. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend lunch, this soup fills the kitchen with wonderful aromas and your belly with cozy goodness. Give it a try, and I think you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again, just like I have!

Print